Rajasthan Royals Manager Faces Disciplinary Action for Dugout Phone Use

Controversy Erupts Over Phone Use in Dugout

Romi Bhinder, the manager of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), has found himself in a precarious situation after being observed using a mobile phone in the dugout during the IPL 2026 match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on April 10.

Despite the Royals achieving their fourth consecutive victory with a win over the Challengers, the incident sparked controversy following the match. Bhinder's phone usage is against IPL regulations, which strictly prohibit such actions.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored an impressive 78 runs in the Royals' successful chase of 202 runs, was seen looking at Bhinder's phone during the final moments of the game, leading to questions about a potential violation of IPL rules.

Implications of Bhinder's Actions

The use of a mobile phone in the dugout has reportedly placed Bhinder in serious jeopardy, with potential disciplinary measures from the IPL governing body looming due to this breach of match protocol.

A BCCI official confirmed that Bhinder's actions violated the PMOA protocol, which prohibits mobile phone usage in the dugout during matches.

"Yes, Bhinder has indeed breached the PMOA protocol, as mobile phones are not allowed in the dugout during a match," stated the official.

RR Dugout Breach: - Managers can use phones outside the dugout. - Bhinder used a phone in the dugout. - He violated PMOA Protocol 2026. - He may face scrutiny from the match referee and anti-corruption unit.

Potential Consequences for Bhinder

Romi Bhinder is likely to face disciplinary action from the IPL, with possibilities ranging from a warning to a match ban, pending further investigation into the incident.

"It could be inadvertent, but action must be taken as it constitutes a breach. The decision on whether it will be a warning or a match ban will depend on the reports from the match referee and the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). The IPL Governing Council will make the final decision," the BCCI official added.

Having been with the Rajasthan Royals since the IPL's inception, Bhinder has progressed through the ranks of the franchise's support staff to take on significant management responsibilities.

The Rajasthan Royals are set to face the Sunrisers Hyderabad next at Uppal Stadium in Hyderabad, aiming to continue their winning streak in the IPL 2026 season.